The Mario Tennis series, a staple of the Mario sports genre, has historically struggled to captivate my interest. While it made a splash with the introduction of motion controls on the Wii with Mario Power Tennis, the novelty has since faded. However, the release of Mario Tennis Aces on the Nintendo Switch marked a return to traditional gameplay with the addition of a story mode. Now, with the upcoming Mario Tennis Fever, the franchise is poised to reinvigorate itself with new features and enhanced gameplay, as previewed at a special Nintendo event.
During this exclusive preview, I discovered that Mario Tennis Fever is packed with diverse modes, courts, and tennis rackets featuring special powers, creating an experience reminiscent of Mario Party. An hour-and-a-half hands-on session barely scratched the surface of what this game has to offer, leaving me eager for more.
Game, Set, FEVER!
The first thing that stands out about Mario Tennis Fever is its stunning visuals. As one of the best-looking first-party titles on the Switch 2, it sets a high bar for future releases. The initial gameplay involved single-player rounds, allowing players to choose from a vast roster of characters and match them with power rackets. I opted for Donkey Kong, wielding a banana racket, which added a whimsical touch to the experience.
After navigating the tutorials and mastering the Fever Rackets and their power-ups, the game quickly ramped up in intensity. The AI opponents presented a formidable challenge, and the dynamic Fever effects, coupled with court-specific elements, showcased the game’s potential for strategic depth and excitement.
Tools of the Trade
Mario Tennis Fever introduces a variety of interactive elements, such as fireballs, banana peels, and thumping blocks, that disrupt gameplay and add layers of strategy. The return of the adventure mode offers a full single-player campaign, where players control baby versions of Mario, Luigi, Waluigi, and Wario as they navigate a Super Mario-style map. This mode provides unique challenges and abilities, enhancing the game’s replayability.
The introduction of Fever Rackets adds a new dimension to gameplay. Players can choose from a variety of rackets, each with unique abilities. Once the fever gauge is filled, players can unleash powerful moves that can turn the tide of a match. My personal favorite was the Bullet Bill racket, which proved particularly effective in doubles matches, adding a delightful chaos to the court.
The game features several court types, inspired by iconic Nintendo titles such as the Donkey Kong Jungle Court and the Wonder Court from the latest Super Mario Bros. game. While motion controls are available in “Swing Mode,” they are optional and add a layer of Mario Party-like fun without being essential to gameplay.
Thoughts So Far
Mario Tennis Fever appears to be a significant evolution for the series. With a roster of 28 playable characters, the innovative Fever Rackets, and breathtaking graphics on the Nintendo Switch 2, it promises to offer a fresh and engaging experience for both new and returning players. The game is set to launch on February 12, 2026, and I am eager to dive back into the action and explore the full extent of its offerings.
As the release date approaches, anticipation is building among fans and industry experts alike. The game’s blend of traditional tennis mechanics with inventive new features could set a new standard for sports games on the platform.
Mario Tennis Fever will be available on the Nintendo Switch 2, and it is shaping up to be a must-have title for fans of the series and newcomers alike. With its release just around the corner, the excitement continues to grow, promising a thrilling addition to the Mario sports lineup.
